This Quiet Island In Washington Is The Perfect Vacation Destination You’re Overlooking

We're incredibly fortunate to live in a state people visit from all over the country (and the world) for their vacations. This means we don't even have to leave Washington to enjoy a beautiful and relaxing break from reality. And if you have yet to spend your vacation time on Whidbey Island, you're really missing out.

Whidbey Island is probably bigger than you think. It's about 55 miles long, with a total land area of 168.67 square miles.

From the perfect parks to the hiking trails, charming small towns, restaurants, wine and spirits, and an abundance of beaches, you'll find something for everyone here.

You can take the ferry from Mukilteo, but we highly recommend driving over the Deception Pass Bridge when you can.

The views are unparalleled, especially around sunset.

First of all, the little town of Coupeville is ridiculously charming, and every Washingtonian should visit.

Coupeville is well known for being the setting for the 90s hit Practical Magic, but there's so much more to it.

Downtown Coupeville is full of fun shops and small businesses, including Knead & Feed, which has been serving scrumptious baked goods for over 40 years...

... but if you want to enjoy fine dining in a laid back setting, head straight to The Oystercatcher.

For over 18 years, this eatery has been a local favorite. Chef Tyler Hansen and his team create seasonal menus of local goodness.

The Oystercatcher is named after the bird, but you will find oysters on the menu here.

You can get your Pacific oysters fried or boiled, and they're outstanding.

When you're in Coupeville, a meal at The Oystercatcher is an absolute must. In fact, you should go once a season.

They're closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.

When you're on the island, a visit to Langley is also essential.

Known as the Village by The Sea, Langley has it all: Beaches, bookstores, boutiques, wineries, and award-winning eateries.

While you'll find plenty of fresh seafood and classic pizza joints in Langley, spice things up (literally) with a visit to Portico Latin Bistro at 220 1st St.

Portico features Latin American food from Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America, with a deck overlooking the Puget Sound.

From the slow-cooked Cuban beef to the tacos and enchiladas, you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu here...

... but whatever you do, you'll want to save room for dessert.

The chocolate flan at Portico is unique, delicious, and irresistible.

Whidbey is full of breathtaking beaches perfect for watching the sunset.

This is a post-sunset shot at Double Bluff Beach in Freeland, a beach with plenty of public access and an off-leash area for dogs.

A great time to visit Whidbey Island is during one of their many events and festivals, which you can find information on here. Coupeville's Mussel Fest and the Red Wine and Chocolate Tour just wrapped up, but there's plenty of fun on the horizon. And while you're in the area, head to Camano Island and check out this incredible state park.